Rome Victim Recovery Fund Closing Applications

County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. and Rome Mayor Jeffrey Lanigan announced today that applications for the Rome Victim Recovery Fund will no longer be accepted after August 23, 2024.

“Since the minute the tornado touched down in the City of Rome, our goal was to help those affected as quickly as possible,” Picente said. “I am extremely proud of the recovery and relief efforts the County and City have led and am grateful for every organization and community member that has stepped up to help. The Rome Victim Recovery Fund has provided immediate relief to those who needed it most and I thank the Community Foundation for being our catalyst to make a difference in their lives.”

“On behalf of the City of Rome, I extend my gratitude to Oneida County and the Oneida Herkimer Community Foundation for their swift and compassionate response in establishing the Rome Victim Recovery Fund,” Lanigan said. “In the critical days following the devastating July 16^th tornado, this fund provided essential support to those most affected, helping our community begin the healing process. Your partnership has made a profound difference during this challenging time, and we are deeply thankful for your commitment to Rome’s recovery.”

The fund was set up by Oneida County and the City of Rome through the Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties to assist residents who were impacted by the July 16, 2024 tornado and did not qualify for government assistance. Applicants were eligible to receive up to $5,000 to utilize for insurance deductibles, electrical hook-ups, securing homes, relocation costs, moderate repairs, tree removal and dumpster rentals.

As of August 14, 553 applications have been approved for more than $1.45 million. The bulk of the funding has been approved for insurance deductible assistance ($559,409) and tree removal assistance ($516,623), followed by relocation assistance ($154,469), repair assistance ($132,281), electrical hook-up assistance ($64,020) and dumpster assistance ($23,409).

The most damage reported has been to roofs, followed by downed trees and broken windows.

Oneida County contributed $1 million to the fund and the rest was raised through donations to the Community Foundation. The United Way was also a partner in the process.

"Oneida County's commitment has been a beacon of hope and a vital force in our collective effort to help Rome residents heal and rebuild following the July 16th tornado," said Community Foundation President/CEO Alicia Dicks. "By uniting our strengths and resources, we turn compassion into meaningful support for those in need. Our goal is to not only provide immediate aid but to foster long-term resilience and renewal. Together, we will make a lasting difference."

The Rome Victim Recovery Fund phone bank will continue to be open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday until Aug. 23. The number to call is 315-798-5206. Those interested in donating to the fund can do so here.